Young Cambodian students today understand the importance of education and the doors that academic degrees can open. However, the obstacles between them and university enrollment are often too great to overcome on their own, especially when they come from Cambodia’s underdeveloped, impoverished rural areas.
This was the case for 18-year-old Kimsour, who comes from rural Kampot. Growing up in a family of farmers and fishers as the second of three children, her parents worked tirelessly to keep their children in school. While they usually managed to make ends meet, they would have never had the financial means to support their daughter in pursuing higher education in the capital city, Phnom Penh.
Phnom Penh has been developing at a rapid pace and keeps drawing international businesses, companies, and investment projects, which certainly brings high-income employment opportunities to the country, but also increases the cost of living to levels that have long become unaffordable for the local population. This is why Thomlang – Cambodian Youth Support stepped in to empower Kimsour on her journey to make her dream of becoming an independent businesswoman a reality.
Last year, we supported Kimsour through university enrollment and have been by her side every step along the way, from covering her monthly rental expenses and occasional medical costs to helping her apply for her first internship.
Read more about her story in her own words below:
Hello everybody!
My name is Kimsour, I am 18 years old, and I am currently studying at university in Phnom Penh. I am majoring in General Management. I chose this subject because I want to gain knowledge and skills in leadership, business administration, and problem-solving. I believe that studying at university will help me develop myself and prepare for a promising career in the future, which will help me get a better life one day. At my university, I feel excited and motivated to learn new things, although sometimes I face challenges in my studies. However, you always motivate me to keep going and study harder, and I am really thankful for that.
I need support from this NGO because my family has limited financial resources, and it is difficult for us to afford tuition fees and other study expenses. However, my family always encourages me to continue my education. My parents work very hard every day and want me and my siblings to have a better life than they did. In the future, my goal is not only to become a successful manager or businesswoman but also to start my own business. I want to create job opportunities for others, improve my family’s living conditions, and contribute positively to the Cambodian community.
Thank you so much for supporting me with my education. You are the reason why I can live in Phnom Penh and have a chance to obtain a Bachelor’s degree. I am truly grateful for your support and encouragement. This means the world to me.
I wish you all the best,
With love,
Kimsour
We will continue Kimsour all the way through university graduation and are also planning on enrolling her in language school to help her expand her skillset and qualifications for future job applications. This way, we hope to enable her to gain the essential tools for a successful, educated, and independent future.
Support Cambodian students through access to education by donating to CYS today!
